How Much Notice Does a Lodger Get in Ireland?

Last updated 1 October 2026. General information only.

A lodger in Ireland is entitled to reasonable notice. There is no fixed statutory notice period, because a lodger renting a room in the owner’s own home is a licensee, not a tenant, and the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 does not apply. What counts as “reasonable” depends on your written agreement and the circumstances, but in practice it usually matches the rent cycle, often between one week and one month.

Why lodgers don’t get RTB notice periods

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, a dwelling in which the landlord also lives is excluded from the Act. So if you rent a room in a home where the owner lives, you have a licence, not a tenancy. That means:

• The arrangement does not have to be registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
• The RTB notice periods and termination rules do not apply.
• Neither side can use the RTB’s dispute resolution service.
• The owner can end the arrangement at any time, but must give reasonable notice.

This is different from renting a self-contained flat in the landlord’s house, such as a basement flat or converted garage. That is normally a tenancy covered by the Act. Our housemates and flatmates agreement guide explains the difference between tenants, licensees and lodgers in more detail.

What counts as reasonable notice?

The law does not define it, so the starting point is your licence agreement. If it says “four weeks’ notice on either side”, that is what both sides should give. If there is nothing in writing, a court would look at things like:

• How often rent is paid (weekly or monthly).
• How long the lodger has lived there.
• Whether there has been serious misconduct, such as violence or threats, which may justify a much shorter period.

Citizens Information recommends that homeowners and lodgers agree in writing how much notice each side must give. Doing this at the start avoids most disputes.

What if the lodger won’t leave?

Once reasonable notice has expired, the lodger no longer has permission to stay. Even so, homeowners should be careful about changing locks, removing belongings or using force. These steps can lead to complaints or claims, and getting the Gardaí involved is not always straightforward. Before taking action, it is worth getting legal advice on the right way to recover possession.

Lodgers also have limited remedies. Disputes about a deposit or damage usually go to the Small Claims Court rather than the RTB.

Tax: Rent-a-Room Relief

Homeowners can earn up to €14,000 a year tax-free from renting a room in their main home under Rent-a-Room Relief. If the income goes over €14,000, the whole amount becomes taxable, not just the excess. Short-term lets do not qualify.

Need clarity on your situation?

Frequently asked questions

Is a lodger a tenant in Ireland?

No. A person renting a room in a home where the owner also lives is a licensee. The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 does not apply, so the arrangement is not registered with the RTB.

Can a homeowner evict a lodger without notice in Ireland?

Generally no. A homeowner must give reasonable notice. A shorter period may be justified in cases of serious misconduct, but you should get legal advice first.

Do I need a written lodger agreement in Ireland?

It is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended. A written licence agreement should cover rent, bills, house rules, the deposit and how much notice each side must give.

This article is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your situation, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.